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You Can Buy An Adidas Shoe “Crafted With Light And Oxygen”

The FUTURECRAFT Is Now

Starting today, you can purchase the Adidas FUTURECRAFT 4D, the first high-performance run shoe featuring midsoles “crafted with light and oxygen” through a process called digital light synthesis, according to the official press release.

The shoe’s single-component midsole features precisely engineered zones to address different needs of running, including propulsion, cushioning, stability and comfort. The midsole is broken into three zones: the heel zone, which has a lattice geometry to add cushion and absorb first heel impact; a transition zone, to smooth out the heel-to-toe transition; and a forefoot zone, to propel the runner forward. The midsole is attached to a Primeknit seamless upper that provides a sock-like fit and plenty of breathability and outsoles from Continental for solid grip.

Photo provided by Adidas.

The digital light synthesis process has been pioneered by a company called CARBON and uses digital light projection, oxygen-permeable optics and programmable liquid resin to create high-performance and durable polymeric products. “FUTURECRAFT 4D demonstrates the potential of digital light synthesis in unlocking a new era in sport performance design,” said Ben Herath, vice president of design for Adidas Running, in the press release, “one driven by athlete data and incomparable precision to provide the best for the athletes, enabling them to make a difference in their run. … The possibilities of what we can now create with this technology to push the boundaries of performance is truly endless.”

First unveiled in April 2017, it is available today in the New York City area, through Consortium retailers KITH, Packer and SNS, priced at $300.

The new shoes are yet another sign that Adidas is staying at the forefront of eco-innovation (or utilizing eco-friendly materials and technology) in its products—the brand has already been utilizing Parley ocean plastic in its shoes, and has a goal of eventually removing virgin plastic from its supply chain.